TSS Begins Scholarship Selection for 2026–27 with Interviews of 260 Aspirants

MUKTI’s Talented Students Scholarship (TSS) Programme has taken an important step in its selection process for the 2026–27 academic year, conducting interviews with 260 newly applied candidates from different districts and educational institutions across West Bengal.

The interview process began on 15 September 2026, with in-person sessions conducted on 15, 16, 19, 21, 22, 23 and 24 September at the MUKTI Garia Office. An additional online interview session was held on 26 September for candidates who were unable to attend in person due to examinations or other valid reasons.

Of the 260 candidates interviewed, 20 participated online.

Going Beyond the Application Form

The interviews were organised category-wise to ensure a systematic and focused assessment of applicants. The process provided an opportunity for the panel to interact directly with each student and understand the person behind the application.

The conversations explored students’ academic backgrounds, financial circumstances, educational aspirations, confidence, communication skills, and their approach towards their future. This helped the panel develop a more comprehensive understanding of each candidate beyond the academic and financial information submitted through their applications.

The interaction was equally an opportunity for applicants to learn more about MUKTI and the TSS Programme—its objectives, values, and emphasis on social responsibility. Students were introduced to the idea that the programme extends beyond scholarship assistance and encourages scholars to use their education and opportunities to contribute positively to society.

A Selection Process Enriched by the TSS Community

One of the strengths of the interview process was the participation of people representing different parts of the wider TSS community. The panels included members of the TSS Team, MUKTI staff, Cluster Heads, TSS alumni, existing scholars, sponsors, and MUKTI’s Treasurer, bringing diverse experiences and perspectives to the assessment process.

Among the alumni who participated in the interview panels were Dr. Humaira Khatun (CNMC), Dr. Ashik Ikbal Ansari (CNMC), Dr. Sayan Datta, Arnab Manna, Sibasish Paul, Badirud Zaman, Shreya Karan, Sampad Nag, and Anup Mridha.

Arunima Chakraborty, a TSS alumna and sponsor, also participated in the process, along with Timir Bhattacharya, Treasurer of MUKTI, and Tapas Kumar Dey, Cluster Head.

The participation of former and existing TSS scholars added particular significance to the process. Having once experienced the programme themselves, alumni were able to bring their own understanding of a student’s journey to the interview table—reflecting the growing culture of giving back and peer support within the TSS community.

From Interviews to Final Selection

Following the interviews, the 260 candidates have been categorised into four groups for further review, with scope for additional candidates to be considered based on special requests.

The next stage will involve reviewing applicants on the basis of their academic merit, financial need, interview performance, and the requirements of the TSS Programme before the final selection of scholarship recipients for the 2026–27 academic year.

Through this comprehensive selection process, MUKTI’s TSS Programme seeks not only to identify deserving students who require educational support, but also to begin building a relationship with them from the very first stage.

The larger vision remains to support young people in pursuing their educational aspirations while encouraging them to grow into confident, responsible, and socially conscious individuals who, in time, can extend the same spirit of support to others.

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